Keeping your pets warm in Winter
Just like us when we feel the cold on a winter morning, our pets do too. While we can easily pop on a jumper, pull on our slippers or snuggle up under a blanket, our pets need a helping hand. So how do we keep our furry family members warm and safe in the chilly months? We’ve put together some of our favourite ways to keep pets warm in winter.
Our top winter warmer tips
Even with a lovely big coat of fur, our pets can really feel the cold too. Certain breeds of dogs like chihuahuas and greyhounds need more warmth than others, along with older pets, or ones suffering with arthritis and other medical conditions. Warm up with our top tips to keep your pet warm in winter.
1. Rug Up
Nothing is cuter than seeing our furry friend in a super cute jumper. They also provide some much-needed warmth, particularly for our short-coated friends. There are so many options when it comes to coats and jackets for our furry family members. Just make sure your pet has ample space to breathe, the coat isn’t too tight, and doesn’t have dangling cords or buttons that can be easily swallowed.
2. Insulated shelter and soft, heated bedding
Keeping your dog or cat inside over the winter period is definitely ideal, however, it is understandable if your dog or cat is primarily an outdoor pet. An insulated shelter, like a kennel or enclosed area for your pet will be welcomed when the cold mornings hit and they have a warm bed to help escape the cold and wet. As well as a warm place to sleep away from drafts, elevating their bed off cold floors will help keep them warm and prevent moisture from seeping into their blankets. Consider adding extra warm, soft bedding for them to sleep with, such such as blankets and cushions, or even heat their bedding with microwavable heat pillows. Just be careful it’s not too hot!
3. Winter grooming routine
Our cats’ and dogs’ coat is their main source of warmth. While we may be tempted to let their coats grow long during the chilly months to keep them warm, a winter grooming routine is important. Regular grooming will not only keep your fur babies comfortable but also avoid skin problems, matting and reduce shedding. Winter weather is often wet and damp, with mud, puddles, and wet grass being common, so our outdoor pets tend to be more prone to dirty coats, knots and matting. Also, remember if you’re washing your dog it’s best to bath them indoors with warm water and dry them off fully with a warm towel before they are allowed back outside.
4. Watch for heat-seeking behaviour
Your furry friend is feeling the cold if they are shivering or trembling. They may even cuddle into warm spaces, like beds and lounges, or even up close to heaters. Pooch and cats will avoid lying on tiles, and sticking to warm floors and carpets. Take care if your pet loves to be near heaters or fires, if they’re too close or fall asleep their skin can dry out or it can even lead to burns. Monitor indoor temperature: Keep your home at a comfortable temperature for your pets. If you feel cold inside, chances are your pets do too.
5. Feeding adjustments
During the colder months as our pets need more energy to keep themselves warm, you may find they are hungrier. These extra calories are needed to keep their core body temperature regulated. Some breeds even have extra winter nutritional needs. Just as important is also adjusting their diet if they aren’t exercising as much during these cooler months to avoid the winter weight gain. Always chat to your vet for advice on how much you should be feeding your furry friend if you are concerned you are overfeeding them.
Winter Equipment for Pets:
Blankets
Get nice fluffy and warm blankets that are easy to wash, and feel soft and cuddly.
Clothing
There are so many options with clothing. You can get wooly jumpers, tea-shirts, hoodies, PJ’s, knitted vests, puffer jackets and even little socks for your fur baby. The options are endless. Just be sure they are not too tight or too loose and don’t have any cords or buttons that can be easily swallowed.
Pet Beds
There are many options for pet beds too! There are hamburger/donut beds, reversible beds, water proof beds, orthopaedic beds, memory foam beds and soft fluffy beds to keep your furry friend warm and cozy.
Heat packs
Have you ever noticed when you have a heat pack on yourself that your furry friend is close by to reap the benefits. This is a good way to heat up their bed and keep them warm. You simply heat up your heat pack and place it under your furry friend's blanket or in their bed. Make sure it is not too hot.
Crate Covers
A crate cover will help to trap the heat from your dog inside the crate creating a toasty warm haven for your pet, particularly at night time. We love the look and quality of Paw Paws Crate Covers. Made from 100% cotton canvas, Paw Paws crate covers are breathable and improve the look of your home and, importantly in winter, will help keep your dog warm. They stock a matching range of pillows and blankets too!
Dog Raincoat
Cold & rainy weather putting a dampener on your walks? Check out Pablo and Co's reversible raincoats that have your doggo covered. LITERALLY! Great for keeping your dog warm and dry on walks.
We hope these tips will keep your furry family members warm and dry in the chilly months!
By following these tips, you can help ensure that your pets stay warm, comfortable, and safe during the winter season. Remember, each pet is unique, so it's essential to tailor their care based on their individual needs and preferences. Stay attentive to your pets' well-being and provide them with the love and care they deserve during the colder months.
